Larissa Waters is the Australian Greens Deputy Leader and spokesperson for women. Photo: Michelle Smith

Senator Waters said there was now widespread awareness that gender inequality drives domestic violence.

"[Gender inequality] shapes and reinforces stereotypes about what men and women can and can't do in the workplace, at home and in the community ... worst of all, [it] creates disrespectful relationships and cultural conditions in which violence festers."

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Senator Waters said that while some Australian retailers such as Toys R Us had modified their marketing, others still labelled toys as "for boys" and "for girls" in catalogues and in stores.

This means that some items, such as dolls, makeup and jewellery are singled out for girls and others, such as trucks, action figures and weapons are designated for boys.

The Greens have initiated a Senate inquiry to examine how toys and games are marketed to children. Photo: Pat Scala

The Senate agreed to the inquiry on Wednesday without going to a vote. The investigation is due to get underway when Parliament resumes in 2016, with a reporting date of August.

The terms of the reference for the inquiry also include the gender messages sent to children through education and entertainment and the role of gender inequality more broadly in contributing to domestic violence.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the study painted a "disturbing picture about how Australians think about domestic violence".

He has called on parents to ensure that "our sons grow up to respect their mothers and sisters", saying eliminating domestic violence was a "big cultural issue".

"All disrespect for women does not end up with violence against women, but let's be clear, all violence against women begins with disrespecting women".

Also on Wednesday, the government introduced a bill to the Senate to help courts deal with family violence.

This includes enabling courts to suspend existing parenting orders indefinitely, making it easier for separating couples to make financial agreements and boosting laws against international parent-child abduction.

One in six Australian women over 15 have experienced physical or sexual violence from a current or former partner. One in four women has experienced emotional abuse from a current or former partner.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.